The UGA Certificate in Local Foods is an interdisciplinary certificate designed to give students an overview of the concepts and issues of the local food movement. Students from any major, who have a professional or personal interest in local food systems, are provided the opportunity to explore the many interconnected issues of growing and consuming food grown. The course of study for the certificate insures students receive a balanced view and deeper understanding both the production and nutritional aspects, as well as the complexities of safeguarding the environment and providing for those less fortunate.

The expected learning outcomes of the Local Food Systems are:

a)increase knowledge of local food production, safety and nutrition;

b)increase understanding of the relationship of agriculture to the environment and food system;

c)develop the knowledge and skills needed to produce and market food in the local food system;

d)apply practical experience in collaborative work to build, strengthen and maintain local food systems and programs;

e)develop of knowledge and experience-based credentialing for careers working in communities on health, nutrition and food-related issues; and

f)increase understanding of individuals and families as consumers of food.

Current UGA students can add the Local Food Certificate to their Program of Study in Athena via the MyPrograms option. Students can now add, change, or remove majors and minors, certificate programs through this site. Students who will complete a graduate certificate must “apply to graduate” in the certificate via Athena as well.